FORT LAUDERDALE, FL -- Valentine's Day is the second most celebrated holiday in the world, according to Wikipedia, surpassed only by New Year's Day. While the traditions of romantic cards, flowers, chocolates, and other tokens of affection are invariably welcome on Valentine's Day, consider thinking outside the box as well. What better way to show your beloved a fun time, for instance, than taking him or her to a Broward County Park? This year February 14 falls on a Thursday, when you don't even have to pay the $1.50/person gate fee that's in effect at most of our regional parks on weekends.

Here are a few possibilities:

Enclose tickets to the Florida Renaissance Festival with your Valentine's Day card, then take your sweetheart to the event, now in its 21st year, at Quiet Waters Park in Deerfield Beach. The festival runs from 10 a.m. to sunset on weekends through March 11. Call the festival at 954-776-1642 or the park at 954-357-5100.
What could be more romantic than an old-fashioned picnic in a park? Most of our parks have plenty of open spaces where you can spread a blanket and lay out the feast of your choice.
If your loved one is a nature enthusiast, our park system includes four nature centers – Anne Kolb (954-357-5161) in Hollywood, Fern Forest (954-357-5198) in Coconut Creek, Long Key (954-357-8797) in Davie, and Secret Woods (954-357-8884) in Dania Beach – all with trails, exhibit halls, and other attractions. And there are nearly a dozen natural areas with trails and other basic amenities.
Intrigue your Valentine with a promise to visit Tradewinds Park & Stables in Coconut Creek on Saturday or Sunday after the holiday. The park's south side is home to the world-famous Butterfly World (954-977-4400). And since the 16th and 17th mark the third full weekend of the month, Tradewinds also offers Model Steam Train Rides and Weekend Farm Tours on its north side. Call the park at 954-357-8870 for more information.
For additional information, call or visit the park of your choice or go to broward.org/parks.

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Founded in February 1956 and accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies, Broward County Parks and Recreation Division manages almost 6,500 acres, encompassing nearly 50 regional parks and nature centers, neighborhood parks, and natural areas at various stages of development. Facilities include water parks, campgrounds, a target range, a stadium, a skate park, an observatory, mountain bike trails, an educational farm with stables, and a velodrome and other sports facilities. Hours and fees vary by location. For more information, visit broward.org/parks.

Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations in order to participate in County programs, services, and activities must contact the Special Populations Section at 954-357-8170 or TTY 954-537-2844 at least 10 business days prior to the scheduled meeting or event to request an accommodation.